Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Family Food

I’ve always been a fan of sweet and savory dishes, and honey mustard chicken thighs have stolen my heart! The natural sweetness of the honey complements the tangy mustard, resulting in a flavorful glaze that penetrates the chicken beautifully. I love how simple the recipe is, yet it feels like a special treat. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, the chicken turns out tender and juicy every time, making it a go-to dish in my kitchen.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:05:35.403Z

When I first experimented with honey mustard chicken thighs, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to achieve that perfect balance of flavor. I decided to marinate the chicken briefly to ensure every bite was packed with taste. The combination of fresh herbs and the sweet-tangy sauce makes this dish one I crave frequently.

One key tip I’ve learned is to let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps to lock in the juices, resulting in tender and moist meat. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that's sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delicious marinade.
Easy to prepare and cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, impressing family and guests alike.

The Role of Honey and Mustard

In this honey mustard chicken thighs recipe, honey acts as a natural sweetener that caramelizes during cooking, creating a beautiful glaze on the chicken. The sugars in the honey caramelize, giving the skin a delicate, slightly crispy texture that is simply irresistible. To enhance this flavor profile, I recommend using a high-quality, raw honey for more depth and character.

Dijon mustard brings a sharp tang to the dish. This mustard not only enhances the overall flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken while marinating. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with whole-grain mustard, which adds texture along with its unique flavor. The balance between sweet and tangy is key to making the marinade work.

Essential Cooking Techniques

Searing the chicken thighs in an ovenproof skillet is crucial for developing rich flavors. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact. This method locks in juiciness and creates that golden-brown crust. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, work in batches to ensure even cooking.

When transferring the skillet from the stovetop to the oven, use caution. The handle will be extremely hot, so using an oven mitt is essential. Bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which you can check using an instant-read thermometer. This step guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat while still retaining its moisture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect honey mustard chicken thighs:

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

With these ingredients, you're ready to make a delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect honey mustard chicken thighs:

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or container and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Preheat and Cook

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Bake the Chicken

Flip the chicken thighs and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve Warm

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious honey mustard chicken thighs!

Once cooked, serve this dish with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the marinade. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the honey mustard chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps to keep the chicken moist while reviving the glaze's flavors without drying it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag, where it can be stored for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This can be a great meal prep option for busy weekdays.

Serving Suggestions

These honey mustard chicken thighs are incredibly versatile. Serve them with steamed vegetables, like green beans or broccoli, for a balanced meal. For something heartier, try pairing with mashed potatoes or rice, allowing the delicious glaze to soak into the sides. A fresh salad on the side also contrasts nicely with the dish's richness.

To elevate the flavor further, consider garnishing the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice. This not only adds color but also introduces a refreshing brightness that complements the sweet and tangy notes of the chicken. Your guests will surely be impressed!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well but may require a shorter cooking time.

→ What can I serve with honey mustard chicken thighs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance for even more flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.